GIS [geographic information systems] handbook

Because such data are at the core of many development efforts, GIS is particularly relevant to USAID; however, when compared with other computer-based technologies such as spreadsheets and database managers, the adoption of GIS is still its infancy. This introductory guide to GIS is aimed primarily at USAID Mission officers unfamiliar with GIS or computers in general, but would also be useful to others involved in development in the areas of agriculture, infrastructure, or natural resources management. While the handbook does offer a snapshot of the current state of the technology, its main purpose is to address issues of concern to managers, such as: (1) how to determine whether GIS would be a useful tool for solving a given set of problems; (2) what combinations of hardware and software would be needed; (3) what would be the implications for budget, personnel, and institutional reorganization; and (4) how to go about all of the above. Section one describes general aspects of a GIS and its three main applications -- as an archival system, an analytical system, and a decision support system. Sections two and three focus on, respectively, matching problemsolving needs with a GIS application, and describing the mathematical workings of a GIS. Sections four and five address the transfer of GIS technology to an organization: system design, technical and human resource needs, institutional issues, etc. Appended are (1) a description of a demo diskette (not available from USAID/CDIE/DI) illustrating two applications of GIS, and (2) a glossary of terms.